DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CANNABIS AND HEMP
Cannabis and hemp are both varieties of the Cannabis sativa plant species, but they are typically distinguished by their use, chemical makeup, and cultivation practices. Here are some key differences between cannabis and hemp:
1. **THC content**: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a "high" when consumed. Cannabis plants are bred to have higher THC content for recreational and medicinal use, typically ranging from 5% to 30% or more. In contrast, hemp plants are cultivated for industrial purposes and contain very low levels of THC (less than 0.3% in the United States and 0.2% in the European Union). This low THC content makes hemp unsuitable for recreational use.
2. **CBD content**: CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis that has gained popularity for its potential health benefits. Hemp plants are rich in CBD and are commonly used to extract CBD oil for various therapeutic applications. While cannabis plants also contain CBD, they are often bred for higher THC content.
3. **Uses**: Cannabis is primarily used for recreational and medicinal purposes. It is commonly consumed by smoking, vaporizing, or ingesting products containing THC and/or CBD. Hemp, on the other hand, is used for industrial purposes such as making textiles, paper, biodegradable plastics, construction materials, food products (hemp seeds and oil), and CBD products.
4. **Legal status**: The legal status of cannabis and hemp varies by country and jurisdiction. In many places, cannabis is regulated as a controlled substance due to its psychoactive properties, while hemp is legal to cultivate and use for industrial purposes as long as it meets the legal requirements for THC content.
5. **Cultivation**: Hemp plants are typically tall and thin with few branches, making them ideal for industrial cultivation. Cannabis plants, especially those grown for recreational or medicinal use, are often shorter and bushier with more flowering buds.
In summary, the main differences between cannabis and hemp lie in their THC content, CBD content, uses, legal status, and cultivation practices. Cannabis is known for its psychoactive properties and medicinal uses, while hemp is valued for its industrial applications and high CBD content.
